Construction Cost Calculator

Estimate total building cost from built-up area, your cost per unit area, and an optional contingency buffer.

Estimate construction cost

Enter your own local rate — no regional prices are assumed.

In your preferred unit (sq ft or sq m)
Use the same unit as above

Result

Total estimated cost
$0
Base cost
$0
Contingency amount
$0

Formula used

Base cost = Area × Rate per unit area

Total cost = Base cost + (Base cost × Contingency%)

Example: 1,500 sq ft at $1,800/sq ft with 10% contingency → base $2,700,000, total ≈ $2,970,000.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the built-up area of your project.
  2. Enter your local cost per unit area, using the same unit for both fields.
  3. Optionally add a contingency percentage, then press Calculate.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How is construction cost estimated?

By multiplying the built-up area by a cost-per-unit-area rate you supply, then adding a contingency percentage for unexpected costs.

What cost-per-unit-area rate should I use?

Use a current local quote or published rate for your area and construction quality, since rates vary widely by region, materials and finish level.

Why add a contingency percentage?

Construction projects often have unplanned costs — a contingency (commonly 5-15%) provides a buffer above the base estimate.

Does this include land cost?

No. This estimates only the building/construction cost for the area you enter, not land acquisition.